Accident Details
A pilot reported that the takeoff and initial climb from an airport located near a ridge were normal. During climbout shortly after departure, the airplane descended as if it was in a strong downdraft, and the pilot could not maintain altitude.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses at the airport stated that during the takeoff roll, the airplane rotated nose-up about one-third to one-half down the 3,088-foot long runway. The airplane remained in that attitude, approximately 20 feet above the ground, for the entire length of the runway. The airplane then pitched up further, just cleared trees off the departure end of the runway, appeared to stall, and descended behind the treeline.
Impact and Damage
The airplane subsequently impacted the front yard of a residence off the departure end of the runway and came to rest upright. Examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that all three landing gear separated during the impact. Additionally, the firewall and lower fuselage were substantially damaged.
Passenger Statement
The passenger, who was a glider pilot, stated that he estimated the airplane was approximately 200 feet above the ground when the pilot reported losing altitude.
Mechanical and Weather Information
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions, and the inspector did not observe any. Recorded wind at an airport approximately 10 miles from the accident site, about 25 minutes after the accident, was variable at 5 knots. The recorded temperature at that time was 84 degrees Fahrenheit.